KENYA’S main aviation union has announced plans for a strike starting next Monday, protesting a proposed partnership with India’s Adani Airport Holdings to develop Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), the country’s largest airport. The industrial action could significantly disrupt operations at this key East African travel hub.
The Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU), representing airport staff, opposes the deal announced last month, arguing it could lead to job losses and the introduction of non-Kenyan workers. The union issued a seven-day strike notice on Monday, urging the government to cancel what it termed the ‘unlawful intended sale of JKIA to Adani Airport Holdings of India.’
In response, the Kenyan government has stated that JKIA is not for sale and that no final decision has been made regarding the proposed public-private partnership to upgrade the airport. The government emphasised that the deal is under review, and if it proceeds, safeguards will be in place to protect Kenya’s national interests.
KAWU Secretary General Moss Ndiema stated that the union would reconsider its strike plans only if the Adani Airport Holdings deal is completely abandoned. Ndiema also called for the resignation of the entire board of the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA).
The KAA confirmed receipt of the strike notice and expressed hope for a resolution through negotiations. ‘We are hopeful that a resolution can be reached through negotiation,’ said KAA spokesperson Elijah Miano. The authority has noted that Adani’s proposal includes adding a second runway and upgrading the passenger terminal at JKIA.
The Kenyan government highlighted that JKIA is operating beyond its capacity of 7.5 million passengers annually and urgently needs modernisation. The government estimated the cost of upgrading the airport at $2bn, a sum it finds difficult to fund due to current fiscal constraints. The Adani proposal is still under review.
Kenya Airways, the national carrier, could face significant disruptions if the strike goes ahead. The airline’s CEO, Allan Kilavuka, has not commented on the situation.
As of now, Adani Group has not provided a statement regarding the proposed deal or the union’s concerns. The outcome of this dispute could set a significant precedent for future public-private partnerships in Kenya’s infrastructure development.
